I am searching for a lightweight, internal frame backpack weighing around 4 lbs. I have tried the GVP-4 and just need a better suspension system. Would also like the pack to have some pockets for better organization. Any suggestions???
Jimbo
Investigating backpacks
system
#3
There is always the Mountainsmith Ghost to consider. It weighs about 2.6 lbs and is suppose to have a good suspension system when carrying 25-30 lbs or less. Also for the minimal approach Go Lite makes both the Breeze and Gust. Last year’s hike I carried the Dana Designs Bridger that was in the four pound range, however I believe that this year’s model now weighs more than five.
Jason
Ganj
system
#4
Thanks to all with the replies…I carry 28-32 lbs and as I mentioned, the GVP just put too much weight on the shoulders.
Jimbo
system
#5
I’m going to give an answer which is really not your question, but it may be what your looking for.
I just got a Moonbow Gearskin to test. This weekend I took it out with 30 pounds and it was GREAT! I’m still writing the review so it isn’t on my site yet, but I’ll give you the low down.
It doesn’t have any stays, but has a very well built suspension system. The shoulder straps are padded and they are wide but taper down. They have load lifting straps and an ajustable position sternum strap. The hip belt is also padded and 5.5" wide.
The pack really isn’t a pack, it is a load carrying system. The load goes in a 13"x48" “Taco” of material with compression straps. Pack it by leaving your sleeping pad inside your shelter, then folding your shelter the size of the pad - you can also leave your sleeping bag in there, but I opt not to. Then center the pad and shelter on the gearskin. Lay your food bag, clothing bag, and misc. gear bag on top, then fold the Gearskin over like a taco. Clip the top two straps, and then clip and compress the 8 side straps until the enire load is under pressure. Shove any other items like a rain jacket between the shelter and the Gearskin, and strap your water bottle to the side using a compression strap. The entire pack and gear turns into it’s own stay or frame because of this.
I have loaded the pack to 40 pounds so far and it is comfortable, but I haven’t hiked 40 pounds yet.
So here is where I also think you’ll like it. Since your gear can go inside seperate sil-nylon stuff sacks, they are already in pouches. To access them, just undo one of the side clips and the end of that bag is right there for easy access. I got a snickers out of the very bottom just as easy as I could from any multiple pocket hybrid loader.
And on top of all that the thing is light, mine is the toughest version made from pack cloth and has an optional mesh pouch. This is also the heaviest version and it only weighs 28 ounces. You could get it in sil-nylon for about a pound. After using it, I don’t think the mesh pouch is neccissary.
Check it out at www.moonbowgear.com
SGT Rock
system
#6
SGT Rock, Thanks for the info. Very Cool pack idea. I checked out their website. Dana Designs has something like it, kind of a mesh bag with a harness, but I don’t think it is as versatile. I have one question though. It seems like the tent in this scenario is awfully exposed. My tent is by far the most expensive and most fragile piece of equipment I carry. (A 2 person tent for my wife and I) I’d hate for it to get snagged or to get soaked through. Any thoughts?
Grimace
system
#7
I agree, that is a big concern for me too I don’t want my hammock tarp getting torn up, so I don’t fold it with the pad. An option is to go ahead and stuff your tent if need be and still use your sleeping pad as the centerpiece of the pack. The way I packed my stuff in it made the hammock around the pad unnessisary, but it made it easier to pack and unpack since it isn’t in a bag.
SGT Rock
system
#8
I met the gear maker, finishing my AT thru-hike last year. They also operate the new hostel in Glencliff, N.H.
Anyway, I saw this pack demonstrated and it’s awesome. In terms of your concerns about your tent, you could cover the pack with a rain cover. In addition, I’d recommend calling up Moonbow directly as they may have other advice on your concern. I believe I asked a similar question and they provided a good answer, but, unfortunately I can’t recall what that answer is.
Kimber “Linus” 2000-01
Kimber Rodgers